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SHANGHAI, China, Sept. 2, 2016 /CNW/ - The Government of Canada remains committed to build and renew relationships with international partners in order to increase trade, attract international investment, and grow Canada's middle class.

As part of his official visit to China, the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, visited Shanghai over the past two days where he met with local business and government leaders.

In meetings with members of the Canada China Business Council and in roundtables with women entrepreneurs, the Prime Minister discussed how to strengthen Canada's commercial ties with China – especially how to open doors for small and medium-sized enterprises. He also expressed that Canada welcomes investment from China that will generate jobs and enhance economic growth back home.

Today's meetings emphasized the importance of building relationships with international partners over time that result in new opportunities for the middle class and those working hard to join it.

The Prime Minister also welcomed $1.2 billion in commercial signings between Canadian and Chinese companies, which will help grow Canada's economy and create new jobs for middle class Canadians.

Quotes

"It was great to be in Shanghai and witness exciting new business deals signed between Canadian and Chinese companies in such a wide range of fields. We will continue to strengthen relationships with individuals and companies around the world, with the aim of growing our economy and middle class back home." —Rt. Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

"In meetings with government and business leaders – including women entrepreneurs – we explored ways of connecting even more Canadian businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, to the increasingly important Chinese market. I am encouraged by the discussions today, and know they will go a long way in fostering understanding between our two countries and creating opportunities for our middle class."—Rt. Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

Quick Facts

In Shanghai, the Prime Minister also continued his efforts to build stronger ties and a deeper understanding between the citizens of both countries, with a focus on education, tourism, and culture.

He visited Shanghai Nanyang Model High School where he touted the quality of Canadian education and promoted the role of youth in global issues.

He met with Daniel Lamarre, the CEO of Cirque du Soleil, and his Chinese partner, Fosun, with whom he spoke about the success of the iconic Canadian entertainment company.

Tomorrow, the Prime Minister heads to Hangzhou where he will participate in the G20 Leaders' Summit.

China is the world's second largest economy, and Canada's second-largest single-country trading partner.